University strikes gold in major new UK league table
ASTON University has struck gold in a new Government league table tipped to be a game-changer for UK higher education.
The Teaching Excellence Framework places emphasis on teaching quality and student satisfaction – and Aston has gained a gold award – the highest accolade possible.
The TEF results published this week found students from all backgrounds achieved ‘consistently outstanding outcomes’ at Aston. There were also high proportions of students going into highly skilled jobs or further study.
Aston was considered outstanding on a wide range of other criteria, including physical and digital resources, course design and assessment practices, and teaching and learning practices for students from all backgrounds.
Higher education institutions across the UK had been anticipating the TEF due to its unique emphasis on teaching and student satisfaction. It was introduced by the Government to push the higher education sector to become ‘more accountable to students, as well as to the taxpayer’.
Professor Alec Cameron, Vice Chancellor of Aston University, said: “The TEF has opened a discussion about what it means to be an elite university today.
“Until now, we have been judged in rankings tables largely based on our research strengths.
“It is true that research is a fundamental element of the higher education sector, and our strong partnerships with industry, the professions, and others have helped us develop an impressive record on research for a university of our size. But clearly, our research specialisms are not the main consideration for prospective students. Student outcomes and student satisfaction are among the most important factors for students choosing a place to study, and I am pleased that the Government has recognised this.
“This is a very welcome endorsement of what students, employers, schools and colleges already know, that Aston is excellent for teaching, excellent for student experience, and excellent for job prospects after graduation.”
Other ratings: University of Birmingham (Gold); University College Birmingham (Silver); Birmingham City University (Silver); Coventry University (Gold); Halesowen College (Silver); Heart of Worcestershire College (Silver); Newman University (Silver); Solihull College and University Centre (Gold); South & City College Birmingham (Silver); University of Warwick (Silver); University of Wolverhampton (Bronze); University of Worcester (Silver).